President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has begun the New Year with a message of reconciliation, development, and inclusive governance as he hosted a New Year Breakfast meeting with key stakeholders of Quardu-Gboni District, Lofa County, at the Executive Mansion on Thursday, January 1, 2026.
The meeting brought together traditional leaders, entrepreneurs, and representatives of descendants of the founding fathers of the Unity Party, with discussions centered on peace-building, development priorities, and strengthening cooperation within the district.
Leading the delegation was Mr. Abdullah L. Kamara, a prominent technology entrepreneur and former Chairman of the Board of Commissioners of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA).
Speaking on behalf of the group, Mr. Kamara thanked President Boakai for receiving them as the first delegation to visit the Presidency in 2026, describing the engagement as a meaningful and encouraging start to the year.
As a symbol of goodwill and respect, the delegation presented the President with a cow and assorted agricultural produce. Mr. Fomba Trawallay, a well-known entrepreneur and son of the district, explained that the gesture reflected a traditional expression of appreciation to a “Traditional Uncle” who has consistently stood with the people of Quardu-Gboni in both prosperous and difficult times.
Following the breakfast, President Boakai held an extended discussion with the delegation, lasting nearly an hour, during which he reflected on his long personal and professional relationship with Quardu-Gboni District-one he said predates and transcends contemporary politics.
The President recalled his close association with several prominent figures from the district and the Unity Party, including the late Paramount Chief and former Representative Musa M. Kamara, popularly known as “Musa Gboni”; the late Dr. Edward Binyah Kesselly, founding father and first standard bearer of the Unity Party; and the late Hon. Henry Marvie, Sr., former executive of the Lofa County Agricultural Development Project and an esteemed educator.
He also paid tribute to the late Hon. Losene M. Kamara, a former senior customs official and past leader of the Liberia National Muslim Council.
President Boakai reminisced about joint efforts over the years to develop Quardu-Gboni into a leading agricultural district, noting that it once ranked among Liberia’s top producers of rice, cocoa, and coffee.
Presenting the district’s current priorities, the delegation emphasized the need for reconciliation following divisions created during the 2023 elections. They also highlighted ongoing and proposed development initiatives, including feeder road improvements, plans for a community radio station, the establishment of a senior high school, and the introduction of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) services.
Addressing the education concerns, President Boakai disclosed that he has instructed the Minister of Education to ensure the establishment of a senior high school in Quardu-Gboni, acknowledging that the district has waited far too long for such a facility.
On agriculture, Mr. Henry Marvie, Jr. briefed the President on efforts to revive the Quardu-Gboni Agriculture Cooperative, announcing a proposed startup capital of US$500,000. He invited the President to formally participate in the initiative, citing his extensive background in agriculture and his role in supporting the cooperative’s original formation.
The delegation also commended President Boakai for appointing qualified sons and daughters of the district to key government positions. In response, the President stressed that while his administration values inclusion, appointments are driven primarily by competence and performance.
He cited the work of Mr. Mohammed Sheriff, Managing Director of the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), as an example of results-oriented leadership. President Boakai also praised private-sector actors from Quardu-Gboni who are contributing to national development, including Mr. Fomba Trawallay of Liberia National Toiletries and rice miller Mohammed Kamara, who’s locally produced “Foya Queen” rice brand, the President noted, rivals and even surpasses many imported varieties.
Reaffirming his call for unity, President Boakai encouraged continued reconciliation in Quardu-Gboni District and pledged ongoing collaboration with stakeholders to advance peace and development nationwide.
He concluded the engagement by accepting a request to host a private dinner with entrepreneurs from the district to further discuss investment opportunities and business challenges.
Mr. Abdullah Kamara, speaking again for the delegation, expressed appreciation for the President’s time and commitment, assuring that the people of Quardu-Gboni would be fully briefed on the outcomes of the meeting and that the Presidency would be kept informed of progress in the district.
